Rheumatoid arthritis

Definition

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and potential joint damage. This condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, particularly the synovium, which lines the joints. The result is a cycle of inflammation that can cause severe joint destruction over time, making it distinct from osteoarthritis, which is primarily due to wear and tear on the joints.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect people of any age but commonly begins in middle age and is more prevalent in women than men.
2. The disease often presents symmetrically, meaning if one knee or hand is affected, the other one likely will be too.
3. Symptoms can vary widely among individuals but typically include morning stiffness that lasts for at least 30 minutes and fatigue.
4. Long-term complications of rheumatoid arthritis can include joint damage, decreased mobility, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
5. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are crucial in managing rheumatoid arthritis to prevent irreversible joint damage.

Review Questions

• How does rheumatoid arthritis differ from osteoarthritis in terms of its underlying mechanisms and effects on joints?
  • Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints due to an abnormal immune response, while osteoarthritis is primarily a degenerative joint disease caused by wear and tear on cartilage. In rheumatoid arthritis, the synovium becomes inflamed, resulting in pain, swelling, and potential destruction of joint tissues. Conversely, osteoarthritis involves gradual deterioration of cartilage without the systemic inflammatory response seen in rheumatoid arthritis.
• Discuss the significance of early diagnosis and treatment for rheumatoid arthritis in preventing long-term complications.
  • Early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis allows for timely intervention with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) that can slow down disease progression. Without prompt treatment, patients face a higher risk of irreversible joint damage and increased disability. Early management can also mitigate systemic effects such as cardiovascular risks associated with chronic inflammation. Therefore, recognizing symptoms early on is vital for preserving joint function and quality of life.
• Evaluate how the immune response in rheumatoid arthritis contributes to both joint destruction and systemic symptoms experienced by patients.
  • In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system's attack on synovial tissue leads to inflammation that not only damages joints but also releases pro-inflammatory cytokines into circulation. This systemic inflammation results in common symptoms like fatigue, fever, and malaise. The cycle of immune activation perpetuates further joint destruction through persistent synovitis and can lead to extra-articular manifestations such as rheumatoid nodules or lung involvement. This connection between localized joint issues and systemic effects highlights the complexity of managing rheumatoid arthritis.

Related terms

Synovium: A thin membrane that lines the joints and produces synovial fluid, which lubricates and nourishes the cartilage.

Autoimmune disorder: A condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the body, leading to inflammation and tissue damage.

Joint deformity: The alteration in the normal shape of a joint caused by conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, leading to functional limitations and disability.